Who Is The Oldest U.S. Olympic Athlete At Rio? Phillip Dutton Of The Equestrian Team Proves Age Is Just A Number

As we gear up for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, all eyes are on the athletes. Like every year, competition is stiff; and we're constantly being introduced to new athletes defying the odds — which, because we humans are a curious bunch, has led many to wonder oldest U.S. Olympic athlete at Rio is. This year, it's equestrian Phillip Dutton, who 52 years old on. Now, 52 is by no means ancient; it's not like athletes who qualify for the Olympics at ages older than 16 have spent years gathering dust in the corner or anything like that. (For the curious, the average age of Team USA athletes is 27). On the contrary, older athletes are often remarkable for the length and breadth of their careers, and Dutton definitely hits the mark here.

Dutton is a two-time gold medalist, but his list of awards and accolades doesn't end there. He won the USEA Leading Rider of the Year title in 1998, and every year from 2000 to 2006. And this is still practically scratching the surface — it's nearly impossible to sum up this Olympic athlete's impressive accomplishments in a single article.

It goes without saying that maintaining a career of Dutton's caliber is no small task. It's not just the level he's reached — it's the longevity. The dedication, motivation, and perseverance it takes to win medals year after year is certainly something to be proud of. My hat is off to you, Phillip Dutton!